BENNETTSVILLE — “January is recognized as Stalking and Human Trafficking Awareness Month, a time to educate the public on recognizing warning signs and taking steps to keep themselves and others safe,” reminds Bennettsville Police Department Chief Sammy Crosland, who aims to do just that throughout the month of January.

Crosland defines stalking as involving repeated and unwanted behaviors intended to intimidate, control or instill fear.

“Examples would be excessive phone calls or text messages, social media monitoring, showing up uninvited at someone’s home, workplace or school, following or tracking movements, or refusing to stop contact when asked,” says Crosland, adding, “These type of behaviors should never be ignored, as stalking can escalate over time and early reporting is critical to prevent further harm.”

According to the numbers put out by the Stalking Awareness Prevention and Resource Center (SPARC), most victims are stalked by someone they know or have been in a relationship with. Statistically speaking, also according to SPARC, one in three women and one in six men will experience stalking at least once in their lifetime.

Additionally, SPARC offers some safety tips for victims of stalking to consider, such as making sure others know of the stalking, keeping a record of evidence — text messages, voicemails, screenshots — don’t travel alone, and always have a safe route to the police station or another secure location in mind when traveling. Most importantly, SPARC reminds victims to never, ever meet with their stalkers.

Marlboro County may not be the human trafficking hotspot some areas of the country are known for, but as police chief, Crosland still wants residents to be aware and prepared for any situation they might find themselves in at home or while traveling.

“Human trafficking involves the use of force, fraud, or coercion for labor or sexual exploitation and often occurs in plain sight,” says Crosland, defining warning signs as being individuals who appear fearful, anxious or submissive, someone else speaking for them or controlling their money, identification or communication, signs of physical abuse or exhaustion or malnourishment, restricted freedom of movement, and consistent or scripted stories or minors involved in commercial sex, which is always considered trafficking.

This information is especially critical for those working in the hospitality industry to know. Many victims are snatched from bars and other busy locations where the public’s awareness is low, and many victims are subsequently taken to hotel rooms usually out of state from the areas where they were picked up. Hotel workers should particularly pay attention to Crosland’s warning signs as well as to the number and types of guests frequenting rooms.

“Always consider trafficking,” warns Crosland, who points out trafficking can occur in various locations, including hotels, gas stations, online platforms, workplaces, and private residences.

To help prevent stalking and human trafficking, Chief Crosland suggests, “Individuals [should] trust their instincts, limit the amount of personal information shared online, use privacy settings on social media, be cautious when sharing your location, meet new contacts only in public places, and keep trusted friends or family informed of your whereabouts.”

He suggests parents and guardians should maintain open communication with young people about online safety.

“Watch for sudden behavior changes or unexplained gifts,” cautions Crosland. “Community members and businesses can play a role by staying informed, recognizing suspicious behaviors, and reporting concerns promptly.”

Chief Crosland wants potential victims to know help is available through the hotline at 1-888- 373-7888 or by texting 233733 (BEFREE).

“If someone is in immediate danger, call 911. Awareness, early intervention, and reporting can save lives,” says Crosland.